I remember about 20 years ago, the Bradford Pear was the
tree to have. Now they are all coming down in wind storms and we have learned a
lot in that time. 20 years ago, we did not see the possibility of weak joints
that would bring all of these trees crashing to the ground.

If we are looking for a new tree to replace the Bradford, the
Chinese Elm is it. This tree has some of the most incredible exfoliating bark,
perfect canopy and a soft texture, created by a heavily serrated leaf. This
tree cannot be touched as far as beauty. It is coming onto the landscape scene
almost as fast as the Bradford.

This tree is a very hard wood tree that grows very quickly.
It appears to be bulletproof but if something is going to get us to criticize this
tree 20 years down the road, perhaps that will be its susceptibility to Dutch elm
disease. It is said to be eradicated after taking out all the American Elms so
long ago. This tree is said to be and appears to be a tough contender for tree
of the century!